Lake Manyara National Park
What Makes Lake Manyara NP So Special?
Covering just 330 square kilometers (with about two-thirds of that taken up by the lake itself), Lake Manyara National Park is a compact, diverse, and utterly enchanting destination. It lies between Arusha and Ngorongoro, making it a perfect stop along Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit.
What makes it special?
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An ever-changing alkaline lake that draws thousands of flamingos
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A dense groundwater forest—home to blue monkeys and baboons
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Open savannas, hot springs, and acacia woodlands packed into a single park
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Those legendary tree-climbing lions (yes, they’re real!)
Tree-Climbing Lions
You’ve probably seen lions lying in grass, right? But in Lake Manyara, they take it up a notch—literally. Here, some of the park’s lions are known to climb trees and lounge in branches, a rare and curious behavior that has baffled wildlife experts for decades.
While nobody knows for sure why they do it (maybe to escape bugs or heat?), spotting one lazily perched on an acacia limb is a true safari trophy moment.
Birdwatching Paradise
Calling all bird lovers! With over 400 bird species, Lake Manyara is a feathered heaven. The lake’s alkaline waters attract flamingos by the thousands, often turning the shoreline bright pink.
Keep an eye out for:
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Pelicans
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Storks
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Kingfishers
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Hornbills
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Fish eagles
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Crowned cranes
Wildlife Galore Compact but Rich
Lake Manyara may be small, but the wildlife density is unreal. You won’t drive far without seeing something amazing. Here’s what you can expect:
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Elephants wandering gracefully through the forest
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Giraffes snacking on acacia leaves
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Zebras, wildebeest, and buffalo grazing on the floodplains
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Hippos chilling in hippo pools
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Troops of olive baboons and blue monkeys playing in the trees
And let’s not forget the smaller stars: klipspringers, dik-diks, and mongoose make the place feel like a wildlife wonderland.
Hot Springs & Hidden Gems
Head to the southern end of the park and you’ll find a surprise: Maji Moto, a series of hot springs bubbling up from underground. These steamy pools create otherworldly mineral deposits and offer a unique photo opportunity.
OUR FAVOURITE SAFARI Safari Tours
TOP MOST TANZANIA TRAVEL ITINERARIES
Home to Africa’s most famous parks, Tanzania offers a truly unforgettable luxury safari experience; these itineraries provide an all-around Tanzania Travel wildlife experience. You’ll visit the finest national parks and get in touch with an expert to plan your tailor-made trip.
14 Days Honeymoon Safari
Start from $7,995 per Person
14 Days Family Safari
Start from $7,580 per Person
8 Days Ndutu Migrations Safari
8-Day Signature Tanzania Safari
Start from $4,585 per Person
10-Day Northern Circuit Safari
8-Day Calving Season Safari
Start from $5,895 per Person
7-Day Great Migration Safari
Start from $3,785 per Person
9-Day Luxury Safari Experience
Start from $7,850 per Person
8 Days Ndutu Migrations Safari
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When’s the Best Time to Go?
Here's a quick breakdown of Tanzania's safari seasons:
| Season | Months | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | June – October | Best for wildlife viewing, Great Migration |
| Wet Season | November – May | Fewer crowds, lush scenery, birdwatching |
| Calving Season | Jan – March | Baby animals and predator action in Serengeti |
OUR FAVOURITE TOUR TRIPS
TOP MOST TANZANIA TRAVEL ITINERARIES
Home to Africa’s most famous parks, Tanzania offers a truly unforgettable luxury safari experience; these itineraries provide an all-around Tanzania Travel wildlife experience. You’ll visit the finest national parks and get in touch with an expert to plan your tailor-made trip.
Tanzania Safari
Journey through the heart of Tanzania's wild landscapes with our expertly guided safaris
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